40-Foot High Cube Reefer
The standard high cube refrigerated unit for full-load temperature-controlled freight.
Learn moreTemperature-Controlled & Refrigerated Containers
20-Foot Reefer
Integral refrigeration unit in a 20-foot envelope for temperature-sensitive cargo.
20 ft
Container overview
A 20-foot reefer carries an integral refrigeration machine in the front wall, insulated panels through the walls, roof and doors, and a T-bar floor that lets chilled air circulate under the cargo and back to the return air intake.
Interior dimensions are smaller than a dry van of the same length because the insulation and machinery take up space. Payload planning has to account for the higher tare weight of the refrigeration unit.
In transit the unit draws power from the vessel, terminal or a generator set. Confirm the power arrangement for every leg of the move, including the road segments and any time the container sits at a depot.
Also called20' RF · 20-foot refrigerated container · 20 reefer
Key features
- Integral refrigeration unit mounted in the front wall
- Insulated walls, roof and doors for stable temperature control
- T-bar floor for airflow beneath the cargo
- Higher tare weight and smaller interior than a dry van of the same length
- Requires a power source on every leg of the move
- Set-point and airflow requirements depend on the cargo
Technical specifications
Inside dimensions
| Length | 17' 10½" |
|---|---|
| Width | 7' 5⅞" |
| Height | 7' 5¼" |
| Floor area | 133 sq ft |
| Cubic capacity | 996 cu ft |
Outside dimensions
| Length | 20' |
|---|---|
| Width | 8' |
| Height | 8' 6" |
Door opening
| Width | 7' 6⅛" |
|---|---|
| Height | 7' 5⅛" |
| Other opening / feature | Refrigeration machinery end |
Weights
| Tare weight | 6,404 lb |
|---|---|
| Maximum payload | 60,580 lb |
| Maximum gross weight | 67,200 lb |
Certification and identification
| ISO size/type code | 22R1 / 22R9 |
|---|---|
| ISO size group | 22 (20 ft × 8 ft 6 in) |
| CSC information | Cargo-worthy units carry a valid CSC safety approval plate |
Container specifications may vary by manufacturer, production year and individual unit. Confirm the specifications of the assigned container before booking, loading or modifying the equipment.
Exact interior and tare vary by refrigeration machinery.
Specifications last reviewed 2026-08-24. · Representative carrier specification. Reference specification
Condition and compliance
- New / one-trip units, subject to origin availability
- Used cargo-worthy units with valid CSC plating
- Specialty-certified equipment where the project requires it
Equipment moving on an international booking has to satisfy the applicable carrier, CSC, inspection, prefix, marking and documentation requirements before it is loaded. Wind and watertight condition describes weather protection only, and is a separate standard from cargo-worthy condition.
Common applications
- Temperature-controlled international freight
- Perishable and pharmaceutical cargo
- Industrial process materials
- Project support requiring conditioned storage
Related containers
Insulated
Insulated panels without an operating refrigeration unit, for passive temperature stability.
Learn more
20-Foot Standard Dry Van
The baseline export unit for dense, palletized and general cargo on international bookings.
Learn moreNeed this container for your project?
Tell us what you are shipping, where the container is needed and when the project begins. Pro Box will help identify the appropriate equipment, condition and documentation requirements.